Clare County Council said it had granted permission for the development of coastal erosion management works at, and adjacent to, Carrowmore Dunes, White Strand, Doughmore Bay and Trump International Golf Links and Hotel, Doonbeg.

Opponents have four weeks to appeal against the decision, said a council statement.

Tony Lowes, of Friends of the Irish Environment said the decision “must be appealed”.

“Any intervention through physical barriers will impede the natural evolution of the dune system and put at risk protected species,” he added.

Joe Russell, general manager of Trump Doonbeg, said: “This decision demonstrates the council’s commitment to support local business and protect the economic future of the region.”

He added that the hotel group would press on with “ambitious plans to protect and expand” facilities at Doonbeg.

Whorl snail habitat

As part of the planning conditions, Mr Trump’s resort management will have to keep a close eye on the impact on beach users, the Carrowmore dune system itself, and plants and animals.

A surfers’ right of way through the Doonbeg golf course must also be protected.